What was the general role of artillery in the US Civil War?

Answer 1

Generally speaking, the major role or first function of artillery in the US Civil War was not geared to winning a battle at close range. This was a possibility based on terrain and other factors. With that said, artillery was primarily defensive in nature. The idea was to keep the enemy at bay so they could not enter into close quarters. The success of artillery in the war was when it was used in defense. This was seen in the Napoleonic era. ost attempts by Napoleon to create a central break in enemy lines with cannon usually fell short of this intended goal. On defense, Napoleon's artillery, ( he first trained in artillery ) was much more successful.

Answer 2

To disrupt the ranks, and break up charge attacks. Artillery certainly killed some, but it was perhaps more effective at causing disarray and disorder. It also had a greater range, so it could begin effecting the battle before they were in musket range.